Trump-Ramaphosa summit stirs controversy over genocide allegations and corporate interests

A pivotal meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set for Wednesday, amid escalating tensions over claims of genocide and corporate exploitation.

The Institute for Public Accuracy (IPA) highlighted concerns ahead of the summit, citing Theo de Jager, chairman of the Southern African Agri Initiative and former World Farmers Organisation president, who recently dismissed allegations of genocide against white South Africans in a video statement.

In a statement released by IPA, Patrick Bond, a sociology professor at the University of Johannesburg, criticised Trump as the most openly corrupt leader in modern history, referencing his alleged financial misconduct and Ramaphosa controversial corporate ties.

Bond noted Ramaphosa past role as Glencore local partner and his involvement in the 2012 Marikana Massacre, where 34 miners were killed.

He warned the summit could yield concessions favouring U.S. corporate giants, including offshore oil drilling rights for ExxonMobil and Chevron, relaxed regulations for Elon Musk Starlink in South Africa, and opportunities for Trump family investments.

Bond further accused Pretoria of hypocrisy, citing its vocal support for Palestine at the International Court of Justice while allowing Glencore and Ramaphosa brother-in-law, Patrice Motsepe to supply coal to Israel.

South African arms dealer Ivor Ichikowitz partnerships with Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems also drew criticism for fueling authoritarian regimes.

IPA analyst Sam Husseini linked Trump administration genocide accusations against South Africa to retaliation for its ICJ case against Israel.

The charges, deemed baseless by critics, underscore a broader clash over human rights and corporate profiteering.

As the leaders convene, observers fear the summit will prioritise economic deals over accountability for Gaza, climate collapse, and global inequality—a stark reminder of power dynamics shaping international diplomacy.

The Institute for Public Accuracy (IPA) is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organisation that aims to increase representation of progressive voices in mainstream media.